A High Court judge has been asked to have sympathy for a woman who went into hiding with her sick seven-year-old son.
Lawyers representing Sally Roberts told Mr Justice Bodey she did not want her son Neon to have radiotherapy treatment for a brain tumour because of concerns about the treatment.
Neon Roberts went missing on Monday
A barrister outlined Ms Roberts's position in written arguments at the start of a High Court hearing in London, which will decide what treatment he will receive.
"Much sympathy it is hoped will be felt for her overall position," said Robin Tolson QC.
"The mother's position in this litigation ... is principled, reasonable and in the best interests of Neon."
Ms Roberts, of Tiverton, Devon, was in court for the start of the hearing.
A judge ordered a nationwide search for Ms Roberts and Neon after they vanished earlier this week. Both were found safe.